Fans have mixed feelings about Warriors’ plans for new arena in San Francisco

Spectators gather around to see Warriors players participate in a game of horse at “Warriors Fan Fest” celebration in downtown Oakland on Oct. 27, 2013.

Passionate, loyal and fanatical – these three words best identify Golden State Warriors fans. Every year whether it is a pre-season, regular season or playoff game, you can expect thousands of spectators sporting a crisp all gold “We are Warriors” t-shirt to pack the ferocious and intimidating Oracle Arena in support of the “Dubs.”

Although many Warriors fans from the East Bay have shown loyal support to the team, there is a strong possibility the Warriors could leave their current home for much greener pastures across the Bay Bridge.

On May 22, 2012, the Warriors held a press conference at the Pier 30/32 site located beneath the Bay Bridge, announcing that the team plans to move to a privately financed and state-of-the-art waterfront arena in San Francisco by 2017.

Warriors’ CEO Joe Lacob said they looked at several different locations as well as Oakland, but ultimately decided that the area along the Embarcadero was the best place to have a 21st century architectural masterpiece.

Solidifying the decision to move were accessibility to public transportation and the money and tourism expected flow to San Francisco’s nearby business areas. Not overlooked in this equation was the hope that by completely and privately funding the arena, the Warriors might follow the successful business model of the San Francisco Giants’ downtown waterfront stadium.

In addition, with a commitment to winning, the move reflects the team’s idea of a “fresh start” and the Warriors believe that they are worthy of a new arena.

Oracle Arena is the oldest venue in the National Basketball Association. In June 1996, the site received a $100 million renovation, including the complete demolition and concurrent redesign of the building’s interior, and the addition of 72 luxury suites and three exclusive clubs.

The Warriors current lease in Oakland expires in 2017. But the Warriors can negotiate an extension for periods of five years, four times (for a total of 20 years) after 2017.

Oakland Mayor Jean Quan, who accompanied the Warriors on their NBA Global Games China trip to Beijing and Shanghai last month, has said that she expects to keep the team in Oakland throughout her time as mayor. She faces a re-election battle next year.

“Oakland deserves to keep all of its teams,” she said. “Fans come from all over the Bay Area to Oakland. And that is a good thing.”